Lorry driver jailed for causing crash that left woman with life-changing injuries

Ashley Sceal, 31, was responsible for transporting the farm equipment at Blackboys, near Uckfield in Sussex.

Lewes Crown Court heard how the load became detached from the trailer at around 8pm on 12 September 2022. It fell into the path of a 61-year-old woman who sustained “life-changing injuries”.

Sussex police said the accident caused the motorist “months of hell” and it had a devastating impact on her physical and mental health. A collision report found that Sceal’s lorry was not safe to be on the road. Sceal was also found to be over the drug-driving limit for benzoylecgonine, a cocaine body-breakdown product.

He admitted causing serious injuries by dangerous driving and was jailed for two years and disqualified from driving for three years. Detective Constable Dave Symonds from the serious collision investigation unit said: “All drivers of heavy goods vehicles must ensure that loads are securely attached. “This collision was easily avoidable, but Sceal failed to meet that basic requirement.

He was fortunate not to have killed the victim or anyone other road users in this case.

“It highlights the need for all drivers to be considerate of the risks and to follow safety steps to help prevent causing such devastating consequences.”